Peter Phillips and his new wife, Harriet Sperling, made headlines as they made their first royal appearance since their marriage at the prestigious Royal Ascot on June 16, 2026. The couple, who tied the knot only ten days earlier on June 6, were front and centre during the grand Royal Procession, marking the beginning of the much-anticipated racing event.
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Harriet, a dedicated nurse with the National Health Service, embraced her new status as Mrs. Peter Phillips, a title that made its official debut on the day of the event. The newlyweds were listed together in the Royal Procession carriage list, with Harriet adopting her married name just in time for this royal occasion. Her name badge in the Royal Enclosure bore the name Mrs. Peter Phillips, signifying her transition into her new role within the royal family.
The couple emerged from the carriage procession, riding just behind King Charles and Queen Camilla. The 45-year-old bride sat beside her mother-in-law, Princess Anne, 75, as they united in celebration of a significant day in the royal calendar. The new spouse was also seen engaging in light-hearted conversation with her sister-in-law, Zara Tindall, showcasing a warm familial atmosphere.
Peter, aged 48, is the eldest grandchild of the late Queen Elizabeth II, and his recent nuptials made him the first of his generation to remarry. The pair’s journey together began in earnest when they were publicly seen at the Badminton Horse Trials in May 2024. Announcing their engagement in August 2025, their wedding marked a new chapter for both, as it is the second marriage for each of them.
Previously, Peter was married to Autumn Kelly, with whom he shares two daughters, Savannah, aged 15, and Isla, aged 14. Harriet has a daughter, Georgina, 13, from her previous marriage to fitness instructor Antonio St. John Sperling. Their blended family dynamic received much attention during the wedding festivities, where their daughters also played an adorable part as bridesmaids during the ceremony.
The couple’s wedding festivities, held in the picturesque Cotswolds, featured a royal guest list that included King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other prominent members of the royal family. Harriet shone radiantly on her special day, adorned in the exquisite Pragnell Tiara, a cherished piece of royal jewellery. The service took place at All Saints’ Church in Kemble, where their daughters contributed to the touching family atmosphere of the day.
Harriet’s participation in the Royal Procession comes as no surprise, as both she and Peter have already attended Royal Ascot in previous years, specifically in 2024 and 2025. Observers had noted this move as a precursor to their eventual engagement, fuelling speculation on their blossoming relationship.
As the Royal Ascot unfolds, it sets the stage for a beautiful union that bridges tradition and modern-day royal life for both Peter and Harriet. Their appearance not only highlights their commitment to each other but also opens a new chapter for Harriet within the royal fold, as she navigates her new identity alongside her husband.
The sporting event is also a significant social occasion, gathering some of the UK’s most esteemed figures and patrons alongside the royal family. This royal pairing has captured the public’s attention, and with the announcement of their marriage, there is much to look forward to as they embark on their journey together.